CREWE will come to a standstill when Manchester United roll into town tonight.

Those who failed to get their hands on a ticket for the 10,000 sell-out cup clash will be glued to TV sets at home and in local pubs as Sky Sports screen it live, from 7pm.

Sky have paid the Alex £100,000 for the right to broadcast the match, as Dario Gradi's men attempt a giant-killing act against the might of the Red Devils.

Sir Alex Ferguson will field a team full of international millionaires and hope for a repeat of their 3-0 victory at Gresty Road in 2004.

But Crewe striker Luke Varney, who has banged in six goals so far this season, insists he will not be daunted by the likes of England star Wes Brown and Argentina ace Gabriel Heinze in the United defence.

He said: 'It will be one of the biggest games I've played in. The lads are thriving off it.

'They must give us respect after we knocked Wigan out in the last game. They know we will be in a game too, and we'll give as good as we get. I don't think we'll freeze.'

The town will be painted red for the money-spinner, bringing a welcome boost to pubs and restaurants.

The Alex have knocked out Grimsby Town and Wigan Athletic to get to the third round, while United only entered the competition at this stage.

Fergie's boys won the tournament last season, thrashing Wigan 4-0 in the final. Although the acclaimed manager is likely to rest the likes of Wayne Rooney and Rio Ferdinand, others such as Alan Smith and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer are expected to start the game (7.45pm).

The match represents a face-off between British football's two longest-serving managers. Gradi leads the way after joining Crewe in 1983, while Ferguson was appointed at United in 1986.

Gradi said: 'Anyone who is prepared to spend time with the kids and then put them in the team like Sir Alex has deserves a lot of credit.'

He added: 'It is exciting for everyone involved. We remember very well the last time United came here what a great evening it was. It would be nice to enjoy it and win it this time.'